A Deep Dive into “It Ends With Us”: The Emotional Toll of Filmmaking
In a world where storytelling holds immense power, few films dare to tread the delicate line of deeply personal and societal issues. “It Ends With Us,” directed by Justin Baldoni, is one such film that delves into the harrowing topic of domestic violence. While the narrative is poignant and impactful, it comes with its own set of challenges, especially for those who bring it to life on screen. In a recent episode of Elizabeth Day’s How to Fail podcast, Baldoni opened up about the intense emotional experience he faced while directing and acting in this gripping tale.
The Emotional Journey of Directing “It Ends With Us”
Baldoni, who is also one of the film’s leads, revealed the unique pressures of directing a film that explores such sensitive subject matter. He described directing as a “very lonely job,” where sharing feelings of anxiety or nervousness is often not an option due to the leadership role he must uphold. “You can’t necessarily share your anxiety or your nervousness about something because you’re also the leader,” he explained, highlighting the isolation that can accompany such a responsibility.
The film’s narrative revolves around Ryle, a character portrayed by Baldoni, who grapples with his darker impulses and the consequences of his actions on Lily, played by Blake Lively. During the filming process, Baldoni encountered moments so intense that he found himself needing to step away to process his emotions. “There were moments in the filming of this where I would just have to leave. I’d have to remove myself and go shake it out,” he admitted, revealing the depth of his commitment to authentically portraying the character’s struggles.
A Pivotal Scene That Shook the Director
One particularly harrowing scene involved Ryle’s jealousy as he goes through Lily’s phone. Although he does not resort to immediate violence, the tension builds, leading to a “pivotal dark turn” that leaves a lasting impact. Baldoni described this moment as crucial in illustrating Ryle’s dangerous potential: “You can see in his eyes how dangerous he is. After that scene, I had a near breakdown,” he recalled, expressing the overwhelming pain and emotion he felt in that moment.
Crying and shaking from the intensity of the scene, Baldoni emphasized the emotional toll that such a role can take on an actor, especially when the subject matter hits close to home. The film, which is set to begin streaming on Netflix on December 9, is not just a story; it’s an exploration of the complexities of love, trauma, and the struggle for healing.
Conclusion: A Film of Significance
“It Ends With Us” promises to be more than just a film; it is a powerful narrative that reflects real-life struggles faced by many. Baldoni’s candid revelations about the emotional challenges of directing and acting in such a weighty story make it clear that this film is driven by passion and authenticity. As audiences prepare to experience this emotional journey on Netflix, it serves as a reminder of the importance of open conversations about domestic violence and the impact it has on individuals and families.
FAQs
1. What is “It Ends With Us” about?
“It Ends With Us” explores the complexities of love and the challenges surrounding domestic violence. It follows the story of Lily and Ryle, navigating their relationship’s darker aspects and the impact of Ryle’s jealousy and emotional struggles.
2. Who directed “It Ends With Us”?
The film is directed by Justin Baldoni, who also stars in the film as Ryle.
3. When will “It Ends With Us” be available for streaming?
“It Ends With Us” will begin streaming on Netflix on December 9.
4. What themes are explored in the film?
The film addresses themes of love, trauma, domestic violence, and the journey towards healing and self-discovery.
5. How did Justin Baldoni feel while directing the film?
Baldoni described directing as a lonely job, filled with anxiety and pressure, especially given the sensitive subject matter.
6. What was a particularly challenging scene for Baldoni?
A pivotal scene involving Ryle’s jealousy and the emotional fallout was particularly challenging, leading Baldoni to experience a near breakdown.
7. What can audiences expect from the performances?
Audiences can expect powerful and emotional performances that authentically portray the complexities of the characters’ experiences.
8. Is the film based on a book?
Yes, “It Ends With Us” is based on the bestselling novel by Colleen Hoover, which has garnered a strong following for its heartfelt narrative.
9. Why is it important to discuss topics like domestic violence in films?
Discussing domestic violence in films raises awareness, encourages open conversations, and can help break the stigma surrounding these issues.
10. How does “It Ends With Us” contribute to the conversation on domestic violence?
The film provides insight into the emotional struggles faced by victims and perpetrators, fostering empathy and understanding while highlighting the importance of healing.
Tags
#ItEndsWithUs, #JustinBaldoni, #BlakeLively, #DomesticViolence, #FilmReview, #Netflix, #ColleenHoover